Devin Haney Captures Welterweight Crown, Solidifying Status as Three-Division Champion

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – Devin Haney, the undefeated American boxer, added another accolade to his burgeoning career on Saturday night, claiming the WBO welterweight title with a unanimous decision victory over Brian Norman Jr. at the ANB Arena in Riyadh. The bout served as a featured attraction on the undercard of the David Benavidez vs. Anthony Yarde event.

Haney’s triumph marks his ascent to becoming a three-division world champion, a feat that further cements his position among the elite fighters in the sport. The judges’ scorecards read 114-113, 117-110, and 116-111, all favoring the Las Vegas native.

The victory comes after a turbulent period for Haney, who faced criticism following his recent performances, including a controversial loss to Ryan Garcia, later overturned due to Garcia’s positive drug test, and a less-than-thrilling welterweight debut against Jose Ramirez.

"In 2024, I lost everything. Everything came crashing on me," Haney stated in his post-fight interview. "In 2025, I came to get it back. In 2026, I’m coming for everything."

The fight began with a cautious approach from both fighters in the opening round. Norman, celebrating his 25th birthday, entered the ring with an unblemished record of 28 wins, 22 by way of knockout. Haney, known for his technical prowess and ring generalship, appeared tentative in the face of Norman’s power.

However, the complexion of the fight shifted dramatically in the second round. Haney landed a short counter left hook that visibly staggered Norman. Sensing an opportunity, Haney followed up with a well-timed right cross, sending Norman to the canvas for the first knockdown of the fight.

Haney’s confidence surged after the knockdown, and he began to assert his dominance. Using his jab effectively, he controlled the distance and dictated the pace of the fight. Norman, to his credit, displayed resilience and determination, weathering the storm and attempting to rally in the subsequent rounds.

Throughout the middle rounds, Haney continued to outbox Norman, showcasing his superior skill and ring IQ. He landed clean shots, bloodied Norman’s nose, and appeared to be on the verge of a potential stoppage. However, Norman’s grit and determination prevented Haney from closing the show.

In the latter rounds, Norman began to find his rhythm, mixing up his combinations and landing some effective right hands. He managed to disrupt Haney’s jab and close the distance, engaging in clinches and attempting to impose his physicality.

Despite Norman’s late surge, Haney remained composed and avoided any major trouble. He continued to box conservatively, relying on his jab and movement to maintain his lead on the scorecards.

"He [Norman] came out exactly how we planned so I was able to capitalize," Haney said. "But after I hurt him and dropped him, he made an adjustment and I had to adjust to that as well. He’s a true champion and is better than I expected. I had to thank him for giving me the opportunity to again become champion."

Ultimately, Norman’s lack of experience at the highest level proved to be a factor. While he showed flashes of potential, he was unable to consistently trouble Haney or mount a sustained attack.

"Welterweight is the weight class that I was supposed to be at for a long time," Haney said. "My dad was telling me it’s time to move up for a long time but there was just so much at stake at 135 and 140, but I’m here to stay at 147 for a long time."

With the victory, Haney now holds a world title in his third weight division, adding his name to a select group of fighters who have achieved such a feat. He previously held the WBC lightweight title and the WBC super lightweight title.

The win also positions Haney for potential mega-fights in the welterweight division. While Haney and his father/trainer/manager Bill declined to name specific opponents for his first title defense, a rematch with Ryan Garcia looms large on the horizon.

Garcia, who is currently serving a one-year suspension for testing positive for a banned substance, is expected to challenge WBC champion Mario Barrios in January. A victory for Garcia would set the stage for a highly anticipated unification bout against Haney, a fight that would undoubtedly generate significant interest and revenue.

The history between Haney and Garcia dates back to their amateur days, where they fought multiple times. Their professional bout earlier this year was marred by controversy, with Garcia missing weight and exhibiting erratic behavior in the lead-up to the fight. Despite losing the fight, Garcia’s victory was later overturned due to his positive drug test.

A rematch between Haney and Garcia would provide both fighters with an opportunity to settle their differences and solidify their place among the top welterweights in the world.

In the meantime, Haney remains focused on his own career and is open to facing any challenger who steps up to the plate.

"We are taking on all comers. It doesn’t matter who it is," Haney declared.

Haney’s victory over Norman marks a significant milestone in his career. It demonstrates his ability to adapt and overcome adversity, and it solidifies his status as one of the most talented and accomplished fighters in the sport. As he embarks on his reign as welterweight champion, the boxing world will be watching closely to see what challenges he will conquer next.

Devin Haney’s Career at a Glance:

• Record: 33-0 (15 KOs)
• Titles: Former WBC Lightweight Champion, Former WBC Super Lightweight Champion, Current WBO Welterweight Champion
• Notable Wins: Yuriorkis Gamboa, Jorge Linares, Joseph Diaz Jr., George Kambosos Jr. (twice), Regis Prograis, Brian Norman Jr.
• Age: 27
• Stance: Orthodox
• Height: 5’9"
• Reach: 71"

Brian Norman Jr.’s Career at a Glance:

• Record: 28-1 (22 KOs)
• Titles: Former WBO Welterweight Champion
• Notable Wins: Quinton Randall, Rodrigo Damian Coria, Flavio Rodriguez
• Age: 25
• Stance: Orthodox
• Height: 5’9"
• Reach: 70"

Upcoming Potential Matchups:

• Ryan Garcia vs. Mario Barrios (WBC Welterweight Title): Expected in January 2026
• Devin Haney vs. Winner of Garcia-Barrios: Potential Unification Bout

The welterweight division is currently one of the most competitive and exciting in boxing, with a number of talented fighters vying for supremacy. Haney’s arrival in the division adds another layer of intrigue and sets the stage for a series of compelling matchups in the years to come.

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